Practicing Success
In Freundlich adsorption isotherm, the value of \(\frac{1}{n}\) is: |
1 in case of chemisorption 1 in case of physisorption between 0 and 1 in all cases between 2 and 4 in all cases |
between 0 and 1 in all cases |
The correct answer is option 3. between 0 and 1 in all cases. The value of \(\frac{1}{n}\) in the Freundlich adsorption isotherm is between 0 and 1 in all cases The Freundlich isotherm is an empirical equation that describes the relationship between the amount of gas adsorbed by a solid (adsorbent) and the pressure of the gas (adsorbate) at a constant temperature. It's represented by the equation: \[\frac{x}{m} = kP^{\frac{1}{n}}\] where: \(\frac{x}{m}\) is the amount of gas adsorbed per unit mass of adsorbent. \(k\) and \(n\) are constants specific to the adsorbent-adsorbate system at a particular temperature \(P\) is the pressure of the gas The value of \(\frac{1}{n}\) determines the favorability of adsorption: When \(0 < \frac{1}{n} < 1\), the adsorption increases with increasing pressure but at a decreasing rate. This is generally observed for physisorption, where there's a weak attraction between the gas molecules and the adsorbent surface. If \(\frac{1}{n} = 0\), the adsorption becomes independent of pressure, which is a rare case. If \(\frac{1}{n} = 1\), the adsorption is directly proportional to pressure. This is also uncommon. Therefore, the value of \(\frac{1}{n}\) lies between \(0\) and \(1\) for most Freundlich isotherm applications, regardless of whether it's chemisorption (strong chemical bonding) or physisorption (weak physical attraction). Chemisorption vs. Physisorption and Freundlich Isotherm: The Freundlich isotherm doesn't inherently distinguish between chemisorption and physisorption. It describes the overall adsorption behavior. However, the value of \(\frac{1}{n}\) can sometimes provide clues: Chemisorption typically involves a high energy adsorption process, leading to a stronger affinity for the surface. This might be reflected in a value of \(\frac{1}{n}\) closer to 1 (though not always). Physisorption generally has a lower value of \(\frac{1}{n}\) due to the weaker interaction between the gas molecules and the surface. It's important to remember that the Freundlich isotherm is an empirical model, and the interpretation of \(\frac{1}{n}\) should be done cautiously. |